Leather Goes Girly

As I've been setting my sights on the coming springtime, I've been thinking a lot about leather jackets. Leather jackets for many people are a spring staple. They're chic, go with almost everything, and they provide just the right amount of warmth for spring temperatures without being bulky or too shapeless. For a long time, the leather jacket has been caught within the stereotype of the tough-girl motorcycle jacket. Of course, leather jackets draw from this image as their main inspirations. But it seems that this category of outerwear has been limited to black, brown, white, and gray color palettes. The sole elements of decoration always seem to be zippers and/or studs. For many people who have an ultra-feminine style, leather jackets have been their go-to piece for adding that element of toughness that makes an outfit just a little a bit off, so everything looks just right. 

But why do leather jackets always have to have that often-intimidating, rocker-chick vibe?

Now, leather jackets are straying away from their original identities. The toughness is still there, but new,  sweeter and more feminine elements add a twist to the main idea. Isn't it about time?

Doma leather jacket

Image from bluefly.com

Forget neutral color palettes! Black and brown leather jackets are getting old and color is in. I've always loved purple outerwear, but even so-dark-it's-almost-black purple puffer coats are difficult to find. I'm in love with this lilac shade. It's light and delicate but the motorcycle silhouette and leather composition prevents this jacket from being too girly. The jacket just seems to be screaming "spring." And who doesn't love spring?

Images from net-a-porter.com

Images from mytheresa.com

Miu Miu leather jackets

Image from coolspotters.com

Of course the genius that is Miuccia Prada would come up with these sensational leather jackets for her line Miu Miu. The jackets still have that edgy, rock-n-roll feel but the abstract painted designs are an intriguing twist to the boxy, thick leather silhouettes. The color palettes are adventurous without being too wacky that the jackets become unwearable; one could easily wear any one of these jackets with lots of different outfits. They have a spring quality to them but would also be fitting for fall. Overall, these jackets are amazing in every way, except the price tag (unless you're more than willing to surrender $3,000-$5,000 for one of these babies).

One Teaspoon leather jacket

Image from us.asos.com

I love the boxy, slightly oversized, cropped shape of this jacket. But undeniably the best feature is the creamy pink shade of the leather. The large studs at the hems of the sleeves prevents the jacket from being overly feminine, however; it's like getting the best of both worlds.

So if you've been looking for that perfect leather jacket, try to take a chance and stray away from the norm. A little contrast in a garment makes an outfit just that much more interesting. And the best outfits are always a little bit offbeat.

xo